When exactly do you need a handrail?
Handrails, guardrails, and balustrades all serve a vital purpose; they are in place to make it easier for people to climb stairs and ramps, and can also offer edge protection. The latter could be for mezzanines, balconies, stairwells, or other drops. But, do you know exactly when you need one. As a leading handrail manufacturer, we can help answer this.
How many risers?
Most people know that stairs with lots of risers need a handrail on one of both sides. However, there is a little bit of confusion about the rules if there are only a few steps. For example, some people may have steps outside their home that only have two or three risers. Do they need a handrail here?
The basic rule is that if you have three or more risers then you need a handrail. This is true even if you have a landing between two sets of three risers. The rules for the handrail height and length are the same as with stairs. As a result the rail must be 1000mm above the pitch line. It must also extend 300mm beyond the top and bottom nosings.
The only time you don't need a handrail is if there are only one or two risers plus landings. However, this does not apply if there is a drop of over 600mm at either side of the steps. Because of the risk of falling and suffering injury with of a drop over this height, there must be handrails, even if it is only single risers plus landings.
Over 0.5m
It is also a rule that any landing, platform, or walkway that is over 0.5m off the ground should have a railing. This is to reduce the fall risk. So, whether it is stairs, steps with landings, a mezzanine, or a platform like a loading dock, there should be railings.
Talk to us about handrail designs
It is always wise to check the UK building regulations for handrails. This will ensure you install them everywhere you need one and don't run the risk of leaving any places where there could be a risk of accidents and injury. This is also a vital part of ensuring you maximise accessibility. The last thing you want to do is fail to provide handrails and exclude people.
Barrier Mart is a company with an outstanding reputation. We provide handrails, crash barriers and more to help keep different locations safe. Clients from the public and private sector can work with us to address any concerns they have. We will offer a bespoke service every time, including advice about products and installation if necessary.
So, if you need a handrail or any other product we have to offer, please order online or contact us. We have years of experience and set consistently high standards for all of our products. This should give you confidence that they are perfect for your site.